Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Apple Ecosystem and Software Updates

Apple's latest operating system betas are now available to the public, with rolling out for broader testing. For those already on the beta track, instructions are available on from iOS 27 Beta to iOS 26 if stability or usability issues arise. In related news, since iOS, iPhones have featured a Recovery Assistant that allows booting into recovery mode without a Mac or PC. Meanwhile, YouTube is reportedly aware of an issue affecting picture-in-picture mode on both iPhone and Android devices, where it fails to activate upon closing the app.

Hardware and Market Dynamics

The iPhone loyalty rate has climbed to 87% in the first quarter of 2026, indicating a slowdown in users switching to Android. Apple has also as the world's most valuable company, surpassing Nvidia. However, in Japan, Apple has following recent price hikes on Macs and iPads globally. The highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected in approximately two months, with planned, though their design is anticipated to be similar to the previous generation.

App and Feature Expansions

WhatsApp has begun a gradual rollout of its new username feature, allowing users to reserve their preferred handles. On the automotive front, Apple's Car Key feature is set to expand, with. In the smart home sector, hardwired Matter lighting is becoming more common, with the offering native integration with Apple Home. On the app development side, an indie app called 'Passable' has been highlighted for its ability to through Apple Wallet.

Regulatory and Legal Developments

The European Commission has to provide third-party AI services with the same level of access to Android features as its own Gemini AI. In a separate development, a San Francisco City Attorney has issued cease-and-desist letters to both Apple and Google, demanding the removal of 13 AI "face-swap" apps that can generate nonconsensual nude images, with WIRED reporting on the matter.